Fifteen Leadership Lessons from Andy Griffith

Fifteen Leadership Lessons from Andy Griffith

“Andy was a person of incredibly strong Christian faith and was prepared for the day he would be called Home to his Lord," - Cindi Griffith

July 3rd was a sad day for TV Land as Andy Griffith passed away at his home in Roanoke Island, North Carolina. A multi-talented actor, singer and musician, Griffith was born in Mount Airy, N.C., and “returned” there, years later, in a fictional version of the town that remains forever etched in the misty black-and-white memories of baby boomers, their parents, and anyone with a TV Land habit. The 86-year-old television legend, famous for his roles in The Andy Griffith Show and Matlock, seems to symbolize a more wholesome and positive part of our cultural history. Even now, even with this sad news, it is almost impossible to hear the whistling sound of The Andy Griffith Show theme song without getting a smile on your face.

In honor of the wonderful Andy Griffith and his fictional town of Mayberry, I think today is the perfect day to ruminate on the leadership lessons I learned from that television show. If nothing else, it’s a day to think back about the show with a smile on our faces and remember the amazing actor who portrayed such a strong and caring working father. (I want to start whistling the theme song as I read these.)

1. Never lose your temper.
2. Coach your kids at every opportune moment.
3. Sing often. It is impossible to stay discouraged when you're singing. Singing music makes life more enjoyable.
4. Have a partner. The benefit of having a partner is you never want to quit on the same day.
5. Exercise Patience. Express a lot of grace when the people around you blow it. Leaders know that people aren't to be treated as disposable tools, but as team members who are in the process of personal discovery and development.
6. Love, care for, and serve the community.
7. Be careful with women.
8. Don't try to peak your career too early.
9. Smile.
10.Measure success God's way.

11. Share the Glory. Leaders look for opportunities to share acknowledgment with others.

12. Intentionally Mentor. Leaders know how to steer a team member's attitude and mindset without berating their heart and spirit.

14. Dignify Others. Leaders are distributors of dignity. They intentionally exercise their opportunity to celebrate and encourage people from every sect, background and walk of life, without the fear of 'indignity' or lost reputation.

15. Seek Wisdom. Leaders know that they need additional perspective; they seek it out and use it to lead forward.

At the end of each episode, Andy's leadership was the glue that held Mayberry, North Carolina together. Although He never flaunted his authority, Andy's solid character and presence created all the impact necessary to lead and protect his diverse community of individuals. I think we can all learn a thing or two from Andy. (Going to get a cup of coffee while whistling the closing tune to the show).